Michigan Vernal Pools Partnership

Those Patrollers Have Been Busy!

Check out the Spring 2026 Pool Report to get a recap of this vernal pool season.

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Conservation

Encourage vernal pool conservation through local and state measures
Research & Mapping

Understand the status, distribution and ecology of vernal pools to best inform conservation measures
Education & Outreach

Improve awareness, understanding and engagement of land managers, educators, and other targeted audiences to increase effective conservation of vernal pools across Michigan
Collaboration & Coordination

Leverage the experience, expertise and resources of partner organizations and others to maximize impact and accelerate progress

CONSERVATION

RESEARCH & MAPPING

EDUCATION & OUTREACH

"Wicked Big Puddles"

Vernal pools play an important role in maintaining healthy forest ecosystems. Because they provide habitat for diverse and unique animal species and provide other important ecological functions, some have referred to vernal pools as the “coral reefs of Northeastern forests.” However, these vernal pools are vulnerable to a number of threats and are not well-protected under current wetland laws and regulations.

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LATEST NEWS

January 28th, 2026
Explore a vernal pool through the eyes of Sally the Salamander!

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January 9th, 2026
Register for the Vernal Pool Patrol Virtual Training Series

Three part training series starts on Feb 10th.
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June 3rd, 2026
Clinton County Parks Incorporate Pools into their Master Plan

Every day, we pass by places we’ve seen hundreds of times, and we recognize the parts we know: the stores we shop at, the streets we drive on, the plants and animals we find familiar. But the more you learn about the world, the more there is to notice – and sometimes, if you look carefully, it might just so happen you spot something that you’re uniquely qualified to help protect.
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